👉 Infection refers to the process by which a pathogen, such as a virus, bacterium, fungus, or parasite, enters and takes control of a living host, leading to disease. This occurs when the pathogen breaches the body's natural barriers—like the skin or mucous membranes—and begins to multiply or cause damage. Infection can be acute, lasting for a short time, or chronic, persisting over a longer period. The body's immune system responds to combat the invader, but if the pathogen is too virulent or the host's defenses are weakened, infection can result in illness. Understanding infection is crucial for developing treatments and preventive measures, such as antibiotics, vaccines, and hygiene practices, to mitigate its impact on health.
